Representation of Animals in African Literature of Alain Mabanckou’s Novel Memories de porc-epic
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Abstract
African societies, it is believed that animals being the part of the physical environment play an important role in the consideration of spirituality and belief systems. In narrative fiction they are depicted in such a manner which reflects the attitude of a people about animals illustrated in their religion, culture and life philosophies. The present study is focused in exploring the representation of animals in African prose fiction of Alain Mabanckou’s novel Mémoires de porc-épic. In the novel the vision of readers is redirected towards nature, some types of animals and culture especially as it refers to the spiritual. It influences the earlier view of animals as indication of evil by considering them as being under the total control of man executing his nefarious desires. It was also examined that the philosophical views that influenced Mabanckou’s manner of animal presentation. Methodologically, In this research the literary theory of zoo criticism being aptly applied, The aspect of literary criticism is basically concerned with animal representation, animal subjectivity and animal rights. The present analysis revealed Mabanckou an ecocritical novelist who put to use his narrative skills to present support for the preservation and protection of interconnected affiliations of all creatures and the earth.
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Dr. Eunice Omonzejie is an Associate Professor of French Studies in the Department of Modern Languages, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria.